[Jon Paul]

Hello all: We are Upgrading an old Zinsco combo meter socket/panel circaq 1972 100A to a new 200A CH combo panel. House has Hardiplank siding, wood frame construction. That siding has fibers that are a problem when you saw it! Very messy! Q 1: Better to To cut the siding to size of new panel, or remove it entirely and reside afterwards? Q2: Best technique and tool to cut the shallow depth of 5/16" and NOT deeper so existing wires are not nicked? Many thanks! Kind Regards, Jon

 

[DIYer4Life]

I'm a big fan of oscillating tools. They are easy to use, cut wood very well, and easy to make shallow cuts like you are looking for (just mark a line on the blade).

 

[butcher733]

Yes^^^^^^

 

[mbednarik]

Hello all: We are Upgrading an old Zinsco combo meter socket/panel circaq 1972 100A to a new 200A CH combo panel. House has Hardiplank siding, wood frame construction. That siding has fibers that are a problem when you saw it! Very messy! Q 1: Better to To cut the siding to size of new panel, or remove it entirely and reside afterwards? Q2: Best technique and tool to cut the shallow depth of 5/16" and NOT deeper so existing wires are not nicked? Many thanks! Kind Regards, Jon

A circular saw would work pretty well. Use a carbide blade and take your time. You can screw 2x4s as a guide too in the part you are removing for a nice square straight cut.

 

[Jon Paul]

Hello all: Many thanks for the tips! I will let you know how it worked out in a week or so! Cheers, Jon

 

[ecelectric]

Hardie plank is like cement , definitely use carbide blade

 

[04gixx6]

I'd also wear the appropriate face mask. That stuff is nasty to inhale.

 

[HARRY304E]

Hello all: Many thanks for the tips! I will let you know how it worked out in a week or so! Cheers, Jon

Welcome to the forum.:thumbsup: